Words by Hark1karan with assistance from Michael and Anjali.

Attention this is not a PR post. No hidden agendas here this is the voice of the community.

North Croydon needs some loving. The people of North Croydon love it, so it’s time we, the people, gave it the praise and recognition it deserves. For some strange reason much of the mainstream media, the local press and, PR blog sites ignore or overlook the Northern part of Croydon. Therefore we think that it is time to counter the negative, bias and appropriated media attention by creating an opportunity for North Croydon residents to promote our much loved community. Before we delve in let us acknowledge some of the flaws and remain as honest as possible. As great as it is to celebrate the positive aspects, we need to remain conscious of the struggles and improvements that need to be made.

This side of town is predominantly working class. The community is hardworking and want to see the area improve in terms of investment and resources. This can help social mobility, increase motivation/aspiration and increase the chance of new opportunities being created. The area wants to improve from within alongside life long and new residents. Improve together as a community and support one another. It’s time to share the thoughts of North Croydon residents.

The vast size of Croydon as a borough makes it a diverse place. The total population of Croydon is currently 363,400 (2015), of which 90,000 inhabit Croydon North. If Croydon was a City, it would be the 8th largest in the UK. It is a borough of two halves, one of it identifying with the urban city-scape, the other half identifies with suburia and borders the rolling Surrey countryside. North Croydon and then South & Central Croydon. Much has been made of Croydon in many national newspapers, blogs and click-bait websites.

Often a lot of that focus is directed towards Croydon Central and it’s obsession with grey, unimaginative architecture, shopping centres, high rise office blocks and residential apartments. Many new ventures are doing great work, but fail to be inclusive when representing Croydon. Much of the content and narrative lacks a sense of connectivity with the area and community. For that reason it is important for North Croydon to present its’ side of the story. Deservedly so as it is has its own distinct identity and feel.

Areas of Croydon North

The term ‘Croydon North’ signifies an electoral area, hence use of North after Croydon. Both variations will be used depending on context. Micheal has provide us with a little history on five of the eight areas of Croydon North. The following wards make up North Croydon:

Thornton Heath

Originally part of the manor of Norbury this had been common heathland for many centuries before the Enclosure Act of 1799 turned it into private farmland. The new owners subsequently sold the land for development and gradually over the years housing sprung up along what is now London Road.

‘New Thornton Heath’ was created by the coming of the railway in 1862 and by 19000 there was little housing. Thornton Heath pond was a natural pond and dated back to the 13th century, it was only filled in in 1953! The area was known for centuries as Gallows Green on account of the gallows that stood where the Plough and Harrow pub is located. The pond was an important watering place for cattle and horses and it stood as now on the main route.into London from the south.

Bensham Manor

Bensham Lane retains the area’s ancient name, “Benchesham”, the first mention of it comes shortly after the Norman conquest. There was a manor house at Benchescham, and the road that led from the original gate is still called Bensham Manor Road. In the 14th century title in the land was given to Walter Whitehorse, shield bearer to Edward III and Parliament’s first “Black Rod”. Bensham Manor was renamed Whitehorse Manor in his honour.

Norbury

In the late 13th century Benchescham was divided into northern and southern districts, North Benchescham became “Northborough” and then Norbury.

Selhurst

Selhurst is named after the Anglo Saxon for “dwelling in a wood”. Evidence of a Saxon settlement was found when the railway station was built. Later, the land was owned by Henry VIII. The composer Samuel Coleridge-Taylor (1875–1912) lived at 30 Dagnall Park. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle lived on Tennison Road.

Upper Norwood

The area is one of the highest in the London area, and for centuries was occupied by the Great North Wood, an extensive area of natural oak forest which formed a wilderness close to the southern edge of the ever-expanding city of London. The name “Norwood” is a contraction of “North Wood”.

Among the famous names who once lived in Upper Norwood are: Camille Pisarro the famous impressionist painter and the writer Emile Zola. Crystal Palace was built for The Great Exhibition of 1851 to showcase Britain’s role in the Industrial Revolution and the ‘acquisitions’ from its empire.

West Thornton

Broad Green

South Norwood

People

The biggest strength of any community is its people. Croydon North has a very diverse community. Like much of inner-London, Croydon North brings together people from all walks of life, nationalities, faiths and creeds.

What the people have to say

Daniel

I liked growing up in Croydon because it’s multicultural and I think that has influenced the way I am today. Different cultures create a more open minded community. The fact that people who have lived and grown up in Croydon are proud that they are from there and don’t see it as a negative place.

Tom

It is all about diversity. Having lived in places where it’s less diverse, Croydon has a buzz these others places don’t have innit.

Stuart

I enjoyed growing up in the place I did due to the things I could around me. Friends I knew who lived on the same street as me, places I could go to enjoy myself, parks etc. When I became slightly older and made my own decisions about things I love the fact that there are so many different cultures in a small area. Could walk from my road to Croydon and experience like 6/7 if not more different races and religions.

James

Thornton Heath has a vibrant energy to it that makes it like home to me. It’s an area with a past but the inhabitants won’t let the negativity the media focused on define them and their future. If anything I think that drives people more to change the perceptions of this area because that’s not who we are.

Seema

I like how diverse and accessible it is. I like that the diversity is reflected in terms of cuisine and social things to do.

Leon

I like that the shops are near and we have a decent hospital.

Darren

I am someone that is drawn to potential and excited by the process of fulfilling it, which is why I teach and why I like living in Thornton Heath. It was once a beautiful area that flourished with local businesses and community. I strongly believe that has resurfaced in recent years and I love being a part of helping it grow.

Paul

I have lived with my family in Croydon north for the past 17 years and always despair at the lazy negative stereotypes many feel able to label the area with. I can honestly say that I have been blessed to have met and to know some of the nicest, most talented and inspirational people imaginable. People who on a daily basis work hard not only to achieve their potential but also share their gifts with others in the community.

Keval

Multicultural town, always developing, vibrant atmosphere and great for public transport.

Drupen

I like living in Croydon North because its vibrant and diverse and everything is mostly a short walk away.

Mahtab

The cultural diversity in Croydon is probably it’s strongest point.

Remell Carter

I’ve always felt a sense of community living in Croydon. It’s the kind of place where everybody knows everybody. And in the event of meeting somebody new, the mutual friends you share on Facebook will have you amazed your paths didn’t cross sooner. I love the fact that Croydon is such a culturally diverse place and for such a small town, we ooze charisma and creativity in abundance. Plus it’s always been super easy for me to find my way home from London. Regardless of how drunk I get.

Melody

My favourite thing about North Croydon has to be the array of restaurants from a variety of world regions, there is something for EVERYONE.

Charlie

I like the fact that it’s diverse and it has a lot of talent

Ashley

For all it’s flaws (as with any area), Thornton Heath is a vibrant, bustling district with mounds of potential. As communities continue to invest in it’s local people and businesses, I really feel that the area will flourish in the next five to ten years. For me, it represents a commuters dream; it’s close enough to have good links with the city, but still near enough to the M25 and the M23 to reach the coast and access the rest of the country.

Lee

Croydon North is one of my favourite parts of the borough, there is a bubbling art scene that you either know about or you don’t, good restaurants, a well run leisure centre, a number of amazing third sector groups and a fantastic community of people that the media often fails to highlight.

Joan

I think Thornton Heath has a lot of untapped talent and what’s good about living here is that there are people who are willing to take the time to tap into that talent because they see potential in others. This year there are at least 5 acts from Thornton Heath nominated for a MOBO Award (which is HUGE!). We definitely have potential, not just in the entertainment industry but any industry we’re given the opportunity to access. We have loads of people spending their free time working together to improve the community and it’s making the difference.

Definitions
– Community: A group of people living in the same place or having a particular characteristic in common.

– Culture: Ideas customs and social behaviour of a particular people or society.

– Diversity: It means understanding that each individual is unique, and recognizing our individual differences. These can be along the dimensions of race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socio-economic status, age, physical abilities, religious beliefs, political beliefs, or other ideologies. Gladstone

– Diversity: The inclusion of individuals representing more than one national origin,color, religion, socioeconomic stratum, sexual orientation, etc.: Dictionary.com

Diversity helps us to see our commonality as human-beings and also what makes us all uniquely individual. Simply existing in such an area helps the understanding of those around you and how to function together in a far less homogeneous and conformist society.

Furthermore to the point, this breeds far less fear between people. For all its supposed flaws, North Croydon is a progressive and tolerant community in the grand scheme of things. The talent pool for ideas, creative thinking, knowledge and entrepreneurial endeavour is abundant, however all of this often ignored.

Culture

Croydon North isn’t your typical homogenised free market community. Bucking the trend, it still caters for those on average or lower incomes. It is normal to see independently run businesses for local people. Grainmill on London Road by Thornton Heath has been serving the local South Asian community for over 30 years and is still going strong. Local businesses are also made up of cafes, pubs, bars, barbers, take-aways, convenience stores and much more. Culture is alive in Croydon North. It comes in many forms and isn’t dominated by one or the other and for the time being there is balance. You have many cultural locations dotted around for everyone to come together. British, English, Afro Caribbean, South Asian, Eastern European and African culture blend together. You can belong to a variety of communities depending on what you like. Hopefully the social cleansing of Croydon won’t push out the most vulnerable people. I imagine if all of Croydon was budgeted for equally we’d get better support for Croydon North.

Eating & Drinking

A mixture of cultures only means one thing, good food. If you’re adventurous or just love good food then there is plenty to pick from. If you’re strictly a chain person and like a certain type of atmosphere you may struggle to enjoy yourself. So where to start, I’ll mention most of the well-known spots. Lahore Kebab House, Moorish Lounge, Griller, Afghan Spice, Tasty Jerk, Fry Station, Dosa n Chutney, Chennai Dosa, Kebabish Thornton Heath Pond, Cafes (Glen’s, Fatboys), Mazi, Peri Pizza, Cornfield Bakery, Creams, Afters and many more. There are also a number of good pubs dotted around. The first that comes to mind is the Lord Napier pub in Thornton Heath which has live jazz and a great atmosphere. Another is The Thomas Farley pub which has one of the best interiors for any drinking establishment anywhere in London. Bargain prices with a chilled atmosphere and local vibes. Not many places like this left anymore (also a pool room at the back). Please add more of your favourites places to eat and drink in the comment section.

Transport

There are plenty of transport links with five stations (Norbury, Thornton Heath, Selhurst, Norwood Junction and West Croydon). With trains to Victoria, London Bridge and East London. Trams run from Wimbledon to Addington via Therapia Lane. An abundance of buses from London to Croydon. Night buses from Oxford Circus, Brixton, Holborn & Tooting (N109, 250, N68 & 264).

Crystal Palace F.C. & Selhurst Park

Home to the best football team in South London. Open since 1924 the ground has also been home to Charlton Athletic F.C. (1985 – 1991) & Wimbledon F.C. (1991 – 2003). Wilfred Zaha one of the star players grew up in and around Thornton Heath. The academy has always been strong and full of local talent.

Music Culture

Music culture is strong in Croydon North, it’s a shame however that the strict control over Croydon night-life has meant that music cannot flourish in its own town. Shame on you Croydon Council. Worldwide coverage and multiple awards for many of the people mentioned and still a lack of general support. Can’t think of anywhere that isn’t proud of their successes. The younger generation is definitely proud of local talent.

Dubstep

Norwood is home to dubstep pioneers Mala, Coki, Loefah and Sgt Pokes (Digital Mystikz – DMZ), along with DJ Plastician (Thornton Heath). These lot changed the world (along with other Croydon counterparts) with their uniquely South London sound. Georgina Cook a photographer also from the area, captured the birth of the scene.

Krept and Konan

Krept and Konan a duo hailing from Thornton Heath and Gipsy Hill. Their Otis freestyle got them noticed early and they followed up with the smash Don’t Waste My Time (filmed in and around Thornton Heath). Now signed to a major label with an album featuring well known rappers.

Stormzy

Stormzy is that grime kid. South London and Croydon through and through. Filming many of his early freestyles and music videos in Croydon. Not many in the world can clock 11 million Youtube hits for a freestyle and put Croydon on the map.

Section Boyz

Section Boyz are a crew combing grime and hip-hop with a strong underground following. Backed by Stormzy and much of the grime scene they hail from strictly Croydon North.

Bonkaz

Bonkaz another underground artist rising from Thornton Heath. If you don’t know that it’s popping off in Heath then….

Fuse ODG

Raised in Mitcham but schooled in Croydon, Fuse ODG is a modern day afro-beat superstar.

Faith Child

Faith Child has a soulful pop sound which is influenced by his Gospel roots. He also one of the current batch of artists from Heath to win a MOBO award.

Kaylum Dennis

Kaylum is a young director responsible for some of this years (2015) hottest UK music videos. Working alongside talent from Croydon and around the UK. He is definitely part of North Croydon’s current artistic expression. You’re likely to see much of his work up at LinkUpTV. Definitely a bright star for the future.

?: @courtneyfphoto

A photo posted by Sir Kaylum (@kaylumdennis) on Sep 28, 2015 at 4:18pm PDT

Dougie

DJ Dougie brings us the sound of the ‘The New Old Skool’ on a weekly/monthly basis. His mixes have become popular online with his knowledge of both UKG and current electronic music. If you wanna just get down or geek out to latest bangers then this is your man. Facebook – Soundcloud

Oliver Sudden

Oliver is a Croydon born rapper and hip-hop head. His local ties with the community run way back. As well as being a rapper, you can casually catch him playing vinyl around London. He’ll play anything from hip-hop, breaks, funk, soul, disco and much more. Interview with Oliver – Oliver Sudden – Bandcamp – Oliver Sudden – Twitter

Brit School

Established in 1990 the specialist arts school in Selhurst (previously Selhurst school) has produced many world superstars including Amy Winehouse and Adele. There’s a chance you can make it in life if you get accepted.

Thornton Heath Arts Week

Arts week is only 2 years old and extremely diverse. Still in the early years there is time for it to blossom into something far greater. Here is what happened during the 2015 art week – 58 photo   Website – Facebook – Twitter

Living Free Art Collective

The birthplace of the collective and home to many of the artists. The collective brings together many aspects of Croydon North and surrounding areas. They also hosted the biggest exhibition launch party in Croydon. Bringing the community together to celebrate inclusive art-for-all. www.hark1karan.com/LivingFreeArt

Croydon Biggest Art Exhibition Launch

South Norwood & Thornton Heath Free Film Festival

A free for all film festival in your backyard. They make use of some great local venues to put on a broad range of films for everyone. Definitely one for movie-lovers. Facebook

Thornton Heath Festival

Like a mini carnival in South London, bringing together the dancing and singing communities from around the globe and the British isles. The streets are closed and you can enjoy the best of Croydon North.

Ikea

Ikea opened in 1991 on a former power station site. The chimney towers are iconic and can be seen for miles. The main store for South London and beyond attracts a large number of visitors to area on a weekly basis. Reasonably priced meals are another reason to visit the Swedish superstore. Ampere Way is the closest tram stop.

Streatham & Croydon Rugby Football Club

Formed in 1871 – it is still stronger than ever. Many locals are unaware of the large rugby field hidden behind Brigstock road. Their clubhouse bar is a unique setting with historical photographs going back to inception of the club. One of Croydon North’s hidden treasures. Facebook

Well Versed Poetry Night

You don’t need to go into Central or East London for top quality poetry when you have it on your doorstep. The local collective gather some of the most talented individuals in the area to share their work. Local poets expressing big ideas. There are always at least two guests who make the quick trip down to zone 4. More reason to support the night. If you fancy joining in then make sure you arrive on time and get your name on the list for open mic. Held bi-monthly at the Rugby club (usually 7:30pm -9:30pm). Well Versed Poetry – Twitter

The Pond Life Readers’ Group

Held at Thornton Heath Library once a month. The group is run by Michael a local poet. He gathers an eclectic group of people to discuss themes and opinions of their chosen book for the month. Books are chosen by all members of the group and cover a spectrum of styles. The group is slowly growing and great for readers keen to discuss all things book related. Contact – croydon.thorntonheathlibrary@carillionservices.co.uk

Lenses of Croydon

Lenses of Croydon is a group/forum who hold a monthly photography forum and regular photography walks. The Croydon-wide group gather monthly to bring in a well known or professional photographer to talk through his work, life and skills. Held at the CVA in West Croydon, running from 7pm to 9:30pm. The opportunity allows you to meet others interested in photography, network and meet established photographers. Lenses is run by Lee who is extremely friendly and welcoming to all. He is definitely bringing people together. Meet-Up Page – Twitter – Facebook

Croydon Voluntary Action (CVA)

The organisation is based in West Croydon and is one of Croydon’s unsung heroes. Providing support for those who need it most. The CVA’s purposes is to support those with charitable intentions on behalf of the community in Croydon. They deal with the real issues on the ground and provide support where it is really needed.

CVA’s mission statement focuses the organisation on “promoting, supporting and developing effective voluntary action, community development and community activity for the benefit of the whole community within the London Borough of Croydon” Website

Kemetic Yoga (Sematawi)

Legend has it that this man can change your life. Residing in Norbury, he holds classes across Croydon and surrounding areas. A holistic trainer and high level yoga teacher providing you practical knowledge for all aspects of your life. Truly encapsulating mind, body and soul. He has recently started his free full moon yoga classes (click here for amazing full moon photography). This is a gift to the community and a chance for everyone to come together. Every month during full moon the session is held on Streatham Common (evenings only). No matter what the weather conditions the class will go ahead. Facebook page – Kemetic Yoga – Fitness – Life: KGG

Thornton Heath Community Action Team

Is a group of people working together to make Croydon (mainly Thornton Heath) a greener and cleaner area. For those of you keen to make public spaces greener then this is your opportunity. The action team is always looking for volunteers, why not get in touch. Website

Allotments

Bet you didn’t know about the six allotments spread out over Croydon North. They can be found on Mayfield Road, Bert Road, Enmore Road, Alveston Gardens, Norbury Avenue and Spa Hill. For those of you keen to grow your own fruit and veg why not get involved. A therapeutic past-time with a positive outcome, you can’t go wrong.

Friends of Thornton Heath Rec

These guys basically run a public-style allotment. Keeping it clean and green, whilst providing a chance for locals to come together. Thornton Heath Rec has got to be one of the most interesting public spaces anywhere in London. Facebook group

Upper Norwood (Crystal Palace Town)

The Upper Norwood is where Croydon and Crystal Palace collide. The remainder of Crystal Palace is spread over Bromley, Lewisham, Southwark and Lambeth. You can see the whole of London from the top of Gipsy Hill where Croydon starts and ends. You could say Crystal Palace is like Croydon’s version of a mini Notting Hill. Haynes Lane Market is one to visit on the weekend. A pleasant local market full of delights for everyone. Everything from food stalls to antiques. Antenna Cafe is a little gem hidden behind Sainsburys. Below is Paul who holds a monthly open-deck night called RPM Club at Antenna.

Parks

Croydon North is greener than you think. There are plenty of tree and large parks. Wandle Park, Canterbury Park, Thornton Heath Rec, White Horse Road Rec, Willford Road Rec, Norbury Park, Norbury Hall Park, Norwood Grove Rec, Upper Norwood Rec, Mayfield Park, Westow Park, Grangewood Park, South Norwood Lake and Grounds and Pollards Hill.

Bare Face

Bare Face is a local artist from Thornton Heath taking South London by storm with his vibrant creations. Mastering digital art, he has been taking his vision to the people with a number of successful exhibitions. And you better believe the most successful exhibition was the one in his home town. Local people of Croydon North always support and represent. There is no doubt that there is plenty more to come in the future. Twitter – Instagram

The Printmakers Baker

One of the best bakers in South London, she is Thornton Heath born and raised. Posting up daily delights on her Instagram page. Make sure you place your order for a party or birthday. Instagram – Twitter

Religion

– If you’re religious then you won’t have trouble finding a place to worship. A multi-cultural mix of people means there are plenty of Christian, Sikh, Muslims, Hindu, Jewish, Rastafarian and many other places of worship in Croydon North alone. Vaisakhi – 38 Photos – South London Gurdwara

Brgr and Beer

The boys all grew up and went to school in Croydon North. Even though they’re based in Central Croydon, they’re essentially a product of Croydon North. Representing home grown talent. Website – Facebook

South Norwood Arts Festival

Two weeks of comedy, drama, dance, sport, music, gardens, history, film and fun! Website – Twitter

Notorious Norbury Market Fair & Love Norbury

Is a free monthly market and fair at the Edge in Norbury. Often on the last Sunday of every month from 11am to 4pm.  Twitter – Facebook Also check out Love Norbury, who is a group wanting to progress Norbury. Website – Twitter – Facebook

South Norwood Network

The group is run by local people in order to share local information with residents and businesses. Website – Facebook – Twitter

This is proof that North Croydon is alive and full of amazing people. Let’s continue to keep our communities strong, progressive and inclusive. There are plenty of amazing ‘things’ we may not be aware of, so why not get in touch so we can include them.

Challenges going forward

The challenge going forward will be to encourage local talent across the board. For the talent to sprout in our own backyard. Build our own structures locally. This covers everything from business to arts. There’s no reason why the two can’t come together. The majority of young people are hungry for opportunities, just go out there and speak to them.

No doubt the biggest struggle for many is affording rising rents and for some lucky people, getting a mortgage. The unaffordable rises are driving out most of the vulnerable. We all know that affordable housing doesn’t exist. The threat of social cleansing is very real and the North Croydon is already seeing the affects. There are many opinions as you what can be done and what is the right thing to do. We can protect our communities and have a input through some of the groups mentioned above. Make sure you have a say on your area via ‘official’ council procedures is one option and starting point.

Improving our night time economy makes sense as many people travel to surrounding areas. During the day North Croydon is hustling and bustling. When it comes to the night time economy only Norbury and Purley Way really has anything to offer. There is a demand for more local bars, restaurants and social places on our high streets. Considering the amount of local musical talent, there is definitely a lack of music venues and clubs.

Dialogue between old and new residents needs to improve. Community only work by reaching out to as many people as possible. Inclusion creates a inclusive society. Perhaps that is unique and positive challenge for due to the variety tastes and interests in the area.

Thank you for taking time out to read this long post. It may not be perfect, but someone had to get the ball rolling. Much of what has been mentioned can go into further detail. If you have any comments, good or bad please leave them below. Peace, love and respect.